With one leg remaining in his quest for the career Grand Slam, Phil Mickelson, a six-time runner-up at the U.S. Open, is back at Pinehurst No. 2, the place where all the close calls began in 1999 and a place that, according to Lefty, provides him the best chance to win.

Millionaire? Maverick McNealy's dad worth much more to his son, not just during U.S. Open at Pinehurst

Maverick McNealy doesn't live in his millionaire father's shadow, as Scott McNealy will have none of it. Instead, the Sun Microsystems co-founder takes pride in toting his eldest son's bag around whatever course they may find.

Death watch? 9th green at Pinehurst could get away from U.S. Open players, officials

If there’s one green at Pinehurst No. 2 that is a candidate for going over the top, it’s that of the par-3 ninth. On the card it’s 191 yards, but the putting surface here is one of the course's smallest -- and has the most contour.

Bubba Watson comfortable on Pinehurst's tough, sandy layout

Bubba Watson called Pinehurst No. 2, this year's U.S. Open venue, the "toughest we'll play." Yet, the two-time Masters champ feels comfortable on the restored Donald Ross gem, likening it to a course he grew up on in the Florida Panhandle.

Trends, numbers might pave U.S. Open winner's path at Pinehurst

Finding trends from previous Open victories and previous performances might help predict who will come out on top this week at Pinehurst -- what do the stats say about Phil Mickelson? Rory McIlroy? Justin Rose?

The riddle of Pinehurst is reflected in our senior staff's expert picks -- which range from young up-and-comers to players at their peak including Adam Scott and Bubba Watson to wiley veterans. See all their picks and reasoning right here.

With thumb injury under control, Jason Day set for U.S. Open challenge

Jason Day will make just his sixth start of the PGA Tour season this week in the U.S. Open at Pinehurst (N.C.) Resort after missing time with a left-thumb injury. Yet, the Aussie says he is "100 percent healthy" and ready to contend for his first major title.